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Two Very Different 50mm Lenses on the M9

You’ll know from recent posts that I picked up the Japanese Summilux off of eBay not too long ago. The Canon 50mm LTM Type I has been a favorite of mine ever since. The only other 50mm lens I have for the M9 is a 50mm Summicron Type V, another outstanding lens and it’s moderately priced for a Leica lens.

First up, the Canon @ f/1.4, something the Summicron can’t match.

Leica M9 with the Canon 50mm LTM Type I at f/1.4

The most obvious difference between these two lenses is their maximum aperture: f/1.4 vs. f/2. Weight wise they are more or less the same and size wise there’s not too much of a difference besides the Canon having a slightly lager barrel. A couple benefits the Leica has over the Canon are the integrated hood and 1/2 stop clicks on the aperture ring. The Canon LTM only has full stop clicks.

Next up, the Canon LTM and the Summicron at f/2

Leica M9 with the Canon 50mm LTM Type I at f/2

Leica M9 with the Leica 50mm Summicron Type V at f/2

Some may find the infinity lock on the canon as a hinderance or a benefit. I didn’t like it at first, but with a tiny screw driver and about 30 seconds that infinity lock become a neat little focusing tab that didn’t lock.

Next up, both lenses at f/2.8.

Leica M9 with the Canon 50mm LTM Type I at f/2.8

Leica M9 with the Leica 50mm Summicron Type V at f/2.8

Now each lens at f/4.

Leica M9 with the Canon 50mm LTM Type I at f/4

Leica M9 with the Leica 50mm Summicron Type V at f/4

Finally, each lens at f/5.6.

Leica M9 with the Canon 50mm LTM Type I at f/5.6

Leica M9 with the Leica 50mm Summicron Type V at f/5.6

Draw you own conclusions, but consider this first; the Canon cost $200 and shoots a full stop faster than the Leica.

Each image was shot with the M9 mounted to a tripod and shot with 2 second timer. The files were converted from a DNG in Lightroom and color corrected. Focus was on the “Garmin” on the end of the handlebars.